Seated Guanyin
Medium
Hanging scroll; ink, color, and gold on silk
Dimensions
39 1/2 x 19 5/8 in. (100.3 x 49.8 cm)
Classification
Paintings
Culture & Period
China · Song (960–1279) or Yuan (1271–1368) dynasty (?)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929
Accession Number
29.100.522
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold the serene *Seated Guanyin*, a captivating hanging scroll from China's Song (960–127) or Yuan (1271–1368) dynasty now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection. Guanyin, the bodhisattva of infinite compassion in Buddhism, is depicted in a meditative pose, embodying mercy and enlightenment. These scrolls were treasured in scholarly and temple settings, unrolled for contemplation during rituals or private devotion, highlighting their role in spiritual life. Crafted with ink, color, and gold on silk—a luxurious medium reserved for elite works—the painting showcases r...